Former Minister and Khurai MLA Leishangthem Susindro Meitei has hinted at growing unease within the BJP in Manipur, suggesting that some legislators from the ruling party may be inclined to support the Congress or even leave the party.
Addressing reporters today, Susindro questioned the Congress party’s decision to prepare a no-confidence motion against the Chief Minister despite having only five MLAs in the 60-member Assembly. “Everyone knows that at least 10 MLAs are required to move such a motion. How could five Congress MLAs proceed without support from ruling legislators?” he asked. He added that the gesture of Congress leaders indicated they may be receiving support either from the BJP, the Naga People’s Front (NPF), or the National People’s Party (NPP).
Susindro also accused the Congress of being behind the imposition of President’s Rule in the state. Without naming anyone directly, he alleged that a Congress MP lobbied at the Centre to push for the suspension of the elected government. “There are many who wanted President’s Rule when a popular government was in place. Now they speak as if they want a popular government,” he remarked, adding that in his view, President’s Rule is likely to continue for some time.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, following months of unrest and the failure of political parties to restore stability after the outbreak of the ethnic conflict in May 2023. The Centre recently extended President’s Rule for another six months, citing the fragile law-and-order situation.
While violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has reduced since late 2024, deep mistrust continues to prevent meaningful dialogue between the two groups. Thousands of displaced people remain in relief camps, and the state government under central administration is struggling with issues such as resettlement, disarmament, and reopening of highways for both communities.